Alabama State Parks is introducing a new early booking system for state residents, set to launch on August 1. This initiative, known as the Alabama Residents Advanced Reservation Window, will allow Alabamians to reserve traditional campground accommodations, including RV, modern, and primitive camping sites, a full month before out-of-state visitors can make their reservations.
The new system aims to address the popularity of Alabama’s state parks. State residents will have the opportunity to book campsites up to 13 months in advance, providing them with “greater flexibility” in terms of pricing, location, and date options.
“Alabamians consistently support our 21 State Parks, and this is a way we can show our appreciation,” Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Commissioner Chris Blankenship said. “Allowing Alabama residents to book earlier gives our neighbors expanded opportunities to stay, play and explore throughout our State Parks.”
To take advantage of the early booking window, Alabama residents will need to use the Plan Your Adventure Online portal at alapark.com. When accessing the reservation system, users will be prompted to provide a zip code. Those with an Alabama zip code will be granted access to the 13-month advance booking window, while out-of-state visitors will maintain the current 12-month reservation period.
To ensure the integrity of the system and prevent misuse, Alabama State Parks have implemented a new security feature. When completing an online booking, the zip code associated with the credit card used for the reservation must match the Alabama zip code initially provided.
“In recent years, we have heard from Alabama residents inquiring about some form of reservation option that is unique to our state’s residents. With changes in our reservations system, we now have that technological capability and have made this happen,” State Parks Director Greg Lein said.
Lein encouraged guests to make reservations early and frequently through the “Plan Your Adventure Online” portal on their website, alapark.com, and expressed gratitude for the support Alabamians show to their State Parks.
According to a press release, as the new reservation system rolls out, Alabama State Parks reminded both residents and out-of-state visitors to plan ahead and make reservations early through the online portal.